बॉलीवुड की बेरुखी का शिकार हुईं Sulakshana Pandit,अंतिम संस्कार से गायब सितारे। बहन Vijayta बुरा हाल

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Sulakshana Pandit: The Forgotten Star and Bollywood’s Apathy at Her Final Farewell

Introduction

The world of Bollywood is often seen as a glittering universe, full of glamour, fame, and adulation. But behind the dazzling lights and star-studded gatherings lies a reality that is often harsh and unforgiving. It is a world that celebrates rising stars but quickly forgets those who fade away, leaving many to struggle in obscurity. The recent passing of Sulakshana Pandit, a renowned actress and singer of the 1970s and 1980s, has brought this uncomfortable truth into sharp focus. Her funeral, attended by only a handful of industry insiders, has sparked widespread debate about Bollywood’s indifference towards its own legends.

A Quiet Departure

On the night of November 6, Sulakshana Pandit breathed her last at the age of 71, succumbing to cardiac arrest after a long battle with illness and depression. She had been undergoing treatment at Mumbai’s Nanavati Hospital. The next day, on November 7, she was laid to rest at the Pawan Hans crematorium in Mumbai, her body adorned with flowers and a beautiful photograph that captured her grace and beauty.

But amid the rituals and mourning, one thing stood out starkly—the absence of Bollywood stars. The visuals from her funeral, which quickly spread on social media, ignited a wave of criticism and introspection within the film fraternity and among fans. While her family, close relatives, and a few friends gathered to bid her farewell, the industry that once celebrated her talent seemed to have turned its back.

The Lonely Funeral

Sulakshana’s younger sister, Vijayta Pandit, was inconsolable, weeping uncontrollably beside her sister’s bier. The pain of losing a sibling was evident, and those present could not help but shed tears at the heartbreaking scene. Vijayta, who had cared for Sulakshana during her final days, was supported by her brothers and nephews, but the sorrow was overwhelming.

The ambulance carrying Sulakshana to the crematorium was decorated with flowers, a poignant tribute to a woman whose life was once filled with music and applause. Yet, the emptiness was palpable—not just in the loss of Sulakshana but in the lack of presence from the Bollywood fraternity.

Only a few notable personalities from the industry attended her last rites. Actress Shabana Azmi, filmmaker Ashok Pandit, and actress Poonam Dhillon were among the few who came to pay their respects. Despite Sulakshana’s connection to a prominent musical family, the absence of Bollywood stars was glaring.

A Stark Contrast: Bollywood’s Double Standards

The apathy shown at Sulakshana Pandit’s funeral was contrasted by the outpouring of support at the home of Sanjay Khan, whose wife Zarine Khan passed away on the same day. Zarine’s final farewell saw a stream of celebrities—including Jaya Bachchan, Rani Mukerji, Jackie Shroff, Madhur Bhandarkar, Bobby Deol, and Rohit Roy—arriving to offer condolences.

This stark difference did not go unnoticed. Social media users expressed their anger and disappointment over Bollywood’s selective empathy, questioning why a star like Sulakshana Pandit was left to fade away in silence while others were given grand send-offs. The incident sparked a larger conversation about the industry’s treatment of its veterans, especially those who have fallen on hard times.

The Rise and Fall of Sulakshana Pandit

Sulakshana Pandit was not always a forgotten figure. In the 1970s and 1980s, she was celebrated as a talented actress and singer, gracing the silver screen with her beauty and melodious voice. Her career was marked by notable performances in films such as “Uljhan,” “Hera Pheri,” “Apnapan,” and “Khandaan.” As a playback singer, she lent her voice to many memorable songs, earning acclaim and admiration.

A member of the illustrious Pandit family, Sulakshana was surrounded by music and talent from a young age. Her brothers, Jatin and Lalit Pandit, became famous music composers, while her sister Vijayta Pandit also found success as an actress. Sulakshana’s own achievements were significant, and she was regarded as one of the most promising stars of her generation.

A Life Marked by Heartbreak

Despite her professional success, Sulakshana’s personal life was fraught with pain and disappointment. She never married, choosing instead to remain single throughout her life. Her family—brothers, sisters, and their children—were her only companions.

The greatest blow came in the form of unrequited love. Sulakshana was deeply in love with actor Sanjeev Kumar, a feeling that was not reciprocated. Her one-sided affection for Sanjeev became a lifelong sorrow, especially after his death in 1985. Sulakshana was devastated by his passing, and those close to her say she never truly recovered from the loss. The grief led her into a deep depression, and her health began to deteriorate.

In a poignant twist of fate, Sulakshana passed away exactly 40 years after the death of Sanjeev Kumar, on the very same date. This coincidence added a layer of tragedy to her already somber story.

Battling Depression and Illness

Sulakshana’s later years were marked by isolation and illness. She struggled with depression, compounded by the lack of work and fading public memory. Her sister Vijayta became her caretaker, supporting her through the darkest times. Despite her family’s efforts, Sulakshana’s condition worsened, and she spent her final days in hospital.

Her story is not unique. Bollywood has a long history of stars who, after enjoying fame and fortune, find themselves alone and forgotten. The industry’s fast-paced nature and obsession with new talent often leave little room for empathy towards those who have fallen out of favor.

Bollywood’s Indifference: A Recurring Theme

The absence of Bollywood stars at Sulakshana Pandit’s funeral is a stark reminder of the industry’s tendency to overlook its own. It is said that in Bollywood, only the rising sun is worshipped, while those who set are quickly forgotten. This attitude was evident in the way Sulakshana’s passing was treated—a quiet, almost invisible farewell for someone who once contributed so much to Indian cinema.

The visuals from her funeral prompted netizens to call out the industry’s cold-heartedness. Many argued that Bollywood owes its veterans more respect and recognition, especially in their final moments. The debate touched a nerve, as fans and observers reflected on the fleeting nature of fame and the need for greater compassion.

A Legacy Worth Remembering

Despite the sadness surrounding her death, Sulakshana Pandit’s legacy remains intact. She was a gifted actress and singer, whose work continues to be appreciated by those who remember the golden era of Bollywood. Her songs, performances, and the emotional depth she brought to her roles are still cherished.

Sulakshana’s life is a testament to the highs and lows of stardom. She experienced adulation and success, but also heartbreak, loneliness, and neglect. Her story serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of mental health, the impact of unfulfilled love, and the need for support systems within the entertainment industry.

The Role of Family

In the end, it was Sulakshana’s family who stood by her side. Her sister Vijayta’s devotion and care were evident throughout her illness and at her funeral. The pain of loss was etched on Vijayta’s face, a reminder that family is often the only source of comfort in times of distress.

The Pandit family, despite their own achievements and fame, rallied around Sulakshana, ensuring she was never truly alone. Their presence at her funeral was a small but significant act of love, contrasting sharply with the industry’s indifference.

The Need for Change

Sulakshana Pandit’s story has reignited calls for change within Bollywood. There is a growing recognition that the industry must do more to support its veterans, especially those who are struggling. Whether through financial assistance, mental health resources, or simply showing up to pay respects, Bollywood can and should do better.

The debate sparked by Sulakshana’s funeral is a step in the right direction. It has forced the industry and its fans to confront uncomfortable truths and consider how they can honor the contributions of those who have paved the way.

Conclusion

Sulakshana Pandit’s life and death are a reflection of the complexities of fame, love, and loss. She was a star who shone brightly but was ultimately consumed by the shadows of heartbreak and neglect. Her funeral, attended by only a handful of people, has exposed the harsh realities of Bollywood’s culture of forgetfulness.

Yet, Sulakshana’s legacy endures. Her songs and performances continue to inspire, and her story serves as a reminder of the need for empathy and compassion. As Bollywood moves forward, let us hope that the industry learns to value its stars not just in their prime, but also in their twilight years.

Sulakshana Pandit may have left this world quietly, but her memory will live on in the hearts of those who truly appreciate the magic she brought to Indian cinema.

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